Ski Trip Packing List: Everything You Need for Your Ski Vacation

At a Glance:
Technical Equipment

• Skis or snowboard with properly adjusted bindings

• Ski boots (fit well and broken in)

• Poles at the correct height for your skiing style

• Bindings adjusted to your correct DIN setting

• Ski jacket and pants designed for waterproof protection and insulation

Protective Gear

• Helmet

• Goggles (with interchangeable lenses for varying light conditions)

• Gloves or mittens (plus an extra pair)

• Neck gaiter or balaclava

• Wrist guards (optional)

Clothing Layers

• Base layers (synthetic or merino wool tops and bottoms)

• Insulating mid-layer (fleece or down)

• Outer layers (waterproof, breathable ski jacket and pants)

• Ski socks (synthetic or wool, avoid cotton)

• Beanie or hat for après-ski

Accessories & Essentials

• Sunscreen and SPF lip balm

• Hand and toe warmers

• Reusable water bottle

• Backpack for the slopes

• Portable phone charger

• Small first-aid kit

Après-Ski & Personal Items

• Casual clothing and warm footwear for evenings

• Swimsuit or slides for hot tubs or pools

• Toiletries and moisturizer for dry mountain air

• Medications and pain relief

• Travel documents, lift passes, and insurance cards

Planning a ski vacation means more than booking your resort. The right gear can make or break your trip. Whether you're skiing in Park City, the French Alps, or at your local ski hill, this list covers everything from ski essentials to après ski comfort.

Technical Equipment Checklist

Core Skiing Gear

Your ski gear is the foundation of your trip. If you own equipment, you'll need:

• Skis or snowboard with properly adjusted bindings
• Ski boots (make sure they fit well and are broken in)
• Poles at the correct height for your skiing style
• Bindings that are DIN-adjusted for your weight and ability

• Ski jackets and pants designed for waterproof protection and insultation

Equipment Care Items

Protecting your gear during travel. Pack your equipment in a padded ski or board bag. A separate boot bag keeps your ski boot organized and prevents damage to other items. Bring basic maintenance supplies like a multi-tool and extra binding screws in case adjustments are needed on the mountain.

Clothing and Layering System

Proper layering keeps you warm and comfortable. The three-layer system adapts to changing weather conditions.

Baselayer Items

Your baselayer sits against your skin and manages moisture. Choose synthetic or merino wool that wicks moisture away. Cotton traps moisture and will make you cold.

Pack at least two sets so you have fresh layers for each ski day:

• Long underwear tops and bottoms
• Ski socks (avoid cotton, choose synthetic or wool)
• Sports bra or undershirt

Merino wool is worth the investment. It regulates temperature, resists odor, and keeps you comfortable across a range of conditions.

Mid-Layer Options

This insulation layer traps heat while allowing moisture to escape. Fleece jackets, down vests, or synthetic insulation pieces work well. Pack one mid-layer, or two if you run cold or expect harsh weather. You can always remove a layer and store it in your ski backpack if you get warm.

Outer Layer Requirements

Your ski jacket and ski pants form your weather barrier. Look for waterproof, breathable materials with sealed seams. 

Ski Jacket:

• Waterproof rating of at least 10,000mm
• Powder skirt to keep snow out
• Ventilation zippers for temperature control
• Pockets for lift passes and a phone

Ski Pants:

• Reinforced cuffs and knees
• Boot gaiters to prevent snow entry
• Adjustable waist for comfort

Accessories

Small items make a big difference in comfort:

• Ski gloves or mittens (bring a backup pair in case one gets wet)
• Neck gaiter or balaclava for cold weather
• Winter hat for walking around the resort
• Warm socks for evening wear

Safety and Protection Gear

Head Protection

Most resorts require helmets for children, and many adults wear them too. A properly fitted helmet can prevent serious injury. It should sit level, feel snug, and avoid pressure points. The chin strap should be tight enough that you can fit one finger between it and your chin.

If you don't own a helmet, rentals are widely available and usually cost $10-15 per day.

Vision and Face Protection

Ski goggles protect your eyes from wind, UV rays, and flying snow. Bring goggles with interchangeable lenses or two pairs for different conditions:

• Bright, sunny days require dark lenses with high VLT (visible light transmission)
• Overcast or snowy conditions need lighter lenses that increase contrast
• Goggles with quick-change lenses are convenient

Additional Safety Items

Sun reflecting off snow can burn skin, even on cloudy days. Pack:

• Sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher (reapply throughout the day)
• Lip balm with SPF protection
• Basic first-aid supplies including blister treatment and pain reliever

Electronics Safety

Cold drains phone batteries fast. Keep your phone in an inside jacket pocket close to your body. A portable charger in your ski backpack ensures you can capture photos and stay connected all day.

Beyond the Slopes Essentials

Après-Ski Clothing

After skiing, pack comfortable clothes and shoes:

• Casual pants and shirts
• Warm clothes for evening outdoor activities
• Snow boots or waterproof footwear for walking around town
• Flip-flops or slides if your accommodation has a hot tub or pool

Many skiers underpack for après ski time and regret it later.

Personal Care Items

Pack your usual toiletries plus ski-specific items: 

• Moisturizer for dry mountain air
• Extra lip balm
• Any prescription medications
• Muscle rub or pain relief for sore muscles
• Hand warmers for cold days

Travel Documents

Keep these organized and easy to find:

• Resort lift passes or confirmation numbers
• Travel insurance cards
• Driver's license and credit cards
• Accommodation information

Extra Items

Consider these helpful additions:

• Camera or GoPro for capturing runs
• Snacks and hydration options (energy bars, electrolyte powder)
• Small repair kit with duct tape and zip ties
• Book or entertainment for downtime
• Packing cube to keep items organized in your luggage

Pack Smart, Ski Happy

A complete list includes gear, layered clothing, safety items, and off-mountain comforts. The key is systematic preparation.

Start packing a few days early to catch anything missing. Lay out your ski clothes and check each item against this list. For a family ski trip, create individual checklists to ensure everyone has complete gear.

Visit Peter Glenn, where our expert staff can help you choose the right jackets, pants, hats, and gloves for your ski vacation, whether you're headed to your local ski hill or planning outdoor activities in Park City.